8 Ultimate Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

8 Ultimate Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting has gained tremendous popularity due to its varied health benefits, as suggested by many scientific researchers. The benefits of intermittent fasting can include weight loss, improved metabolism, and overall well-being and health.

This is a kind of eating pattern that involves a period between eating and fasting.  Here we are going to discuss the key benefits of intermittent fasting:

1. Weight loss and Fat burn

Limited calorie intake: One of the main benefits of intermittent fasting is that it can reduce calorie intake. By restricting the hours of eating, you can consume fewer calories, which leads to weight loss and fat burn. This approach can be effective for an individual who seeks portion control and calorie counting.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4516560/

Elevated metabolic rate: Short-term fasting can help increase the metabolic rate by boosting norepinephrine, a hormone that helps in fat burning. The temporary increase in metabolism helps the body to burn calories even when you are not doing any physical activity.

2. Protection from diabetes 

Control blood sugar level: intermittent fasting can play a significant role in regulating blood sugar levels, which leads to lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. When you give regular breaks to the body from food intake, the insulin sensitivity improves and your cells can utilize glucose more efficiently.

Improved insulin sensitivity: insulin sensitivity is important for maintaining the level of blood sugar. When cells respond better to insulin, there is less chance of becoming insulin resistant, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes. This can help in enhancing the stability of blood sugar levels and reduce the chances of developing metabolic disease.

3. Healthy heart

Level down the risk factor: intermittent fasting can reduce various risks of developing heart disease and keep the heart healthy. Scientific research has suggested that fasting can maintain blood pressure, lower triglycerides, and decrease LDL cholesterol levels associated with heart disease and other chronic disorders. Intermittent fasting heart disease has become a topic of much research nowadays.

4. Healthy Brain and Functions

Neuroprotection: intermittent fasting can increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a hormone related to cognitive improvement and the growth of newly produced neurons. Elevated levels of BDNF are associated with better learning, memory, and overall performance of the brain.

Lower risk of neurodegenerative disease: Studies conducted on animals show that intermittent fasting can give protection against neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. This is because of reduced oxidative stress, enhanced autophagy, and better mitochondrial function.

5. Cell repair and regeneration 

Autophagy: Autophagy is considered one of the significant benefits of intermittent fasting as it can trigger autophagy. This procedure involves the removal of damaged cellular parts such as dysfunctional proteins and organelles, which helps to reduce the risk of developing various diseases and promoting health.

6. Less inflammation

Anti-inflammatory function: inflammation can cause many common diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and different inflammatory conditions. Intermittent fasting can help in the reduction of inflammation in the body lower the risk of developing these diseases and improving overall well-being.

7. Prevention against cancer

Anti-cancer properties: Some studies suggested that intermittent fasting may play a crucial role in the prevention of cancer by reducing tumor growth. These effects emerge from improved metabolic health, enhanced autophagy, and reduced inflammation. More research is needed on humans to confirm these effects.

8. Better gut health

Gut microflora and fauna: this kind of fasting diet plan can have a positive impact on gut microflora and fauna. A healthy gut is essential for better digestion, as well as an improved immune system and overall health. Giving the digestive system a subsequent break can help in maintaining balanced and improved gut health.

Conclusion 

Intermittent fasting offers different health benefits such as weight loss and improved metabolism to better brain function and lower inflammation. This kind of eating practice can help enhance overall health, prevent chronic diseases, and well-being of an individual. However, before starting the intermittent fasting diet plan start in such a way that it should suit your lifestyle and health needs. It is advisable to consult your healthcare professional before starting any such diet to ensure any side effects.